CREWE boss Steve Davis believes releasing his hot starlets for international duty tonight will pay dividends for their long- term development.

Alex fans will enjoy a mouthwatering opportunity to see their local heroes wearing the Three Lions when England Under-18s take on their Polish counterparts at Gresty Road.

The unique chance for Nick Powell, Max Clayton and Ben Garrett was too much for Davis to resist and he agreed to their release – forcing them to miss an important league match against Rotherham United last night.

Davis is adamant the Railwaymen should not be dependent on players only just out of school, and has challenged his more senior players to step up.

He said: “The club is very proud to have three players involved in the England match. I didn’t want to stifle their opportunity to play in front of their own fans for their country.

“They’re a key part of the first team and Nick’s been one of our best players over the past few months, getting better and better and he’s our top scorer.

“It might be a one-off, they might never get the chance to play in front of their own fans again. It would have been different if it was being played somewhere else, but with it being at Gresty Road and in front of a lot of Crewe fans, I didn’t want to pull them out of that and not be a part of it.

“All their experiences with England – the World Cup in Mexico and then the friendlies – are only going to help and improve them. I’m mindful of that, it’s a big part of their development to not just play for our first team and reserves but also in England games.

“Besides, we shouldn’t have to rely on a 17-year-old so that gives others a chance to come in and stake a claim and move the club forward.

“We can’t rely on the two boys (Powell and Clayton), although they’re huge talents, as the only way of winning games. It’s up to the other lads to step up and realise we’re more than just two players.”

Much of the focus tonight will be on Powell, who is expected to find life easier among players his own age than the rough treatment League Two’s bruisers have meted out this season.

But also hoping to make a positive impact will be Nantwich lad Clayton. The former Brine Leas High pupil is still just 17 but already has three goals under his belt in his limited substitute appearances for the club.

He said: “I can’t wait to get the chance to play for my country at Gresty Road.

“For me it’s a massive honour to put the England shirt on and represent my country. I’m delighted to have been picked by Noel (Blake, manager) to represent England on my home ground and hopefully we can all put on a good performance against Poland.

“I’m sure people who are football fans in the area will look to come and support the team and I’m sure they will enjoy the standard of football that is on show.”

Kick-off tonight is 7pm. Tickets are £3 for adults, £1 concessions and available on the gate or in advance by calling 01270 252610.